Chiefs Mock Draft: Filling the secondary holes

1st Round

Eli Apple – CB – Ohio State

Strengths: Tall with long arms and an ideal build for the position.  Excellent athlete who is smooth in his transitions and has the natural ability to keep up with any opponent.  Plays the game with a ball hawk mentality, and understands how to put him in position to make the play.  Physical and doesn’t shy away from blockers.  Versatile with experience in multiple looks despite young age.  Shows excellent understanding of concepts for both his position, and his opponents.

Weaknesses: Still a young player, Apple is prone to some big mistakes.  Aggressiveness can get the better of him, leading to mistakes.  Will play too physical at times, drawing unnecessary flags.  Has some technique issues that need to be worked out, especially in press coverage.

The Fit: While the Chiefs have hit some home runs in free agency thus far, there is little doubt that the secondary is in need of some help.  The retaining of Jamell Flemming has caught some ire from fans who can only remember his poor performance against Denver, but in reality he becomes a very solid bottom of the depth chart option.  However, there is still some question as to who should be starting at CB.

While there is some reason for excitement with Phillip Gaines, his injury history alone calls that decision into question.  Eli Apple is an instant starter with superstar potential.  I have no doubt that he would’ve been the top CB in the 2017 Draft if he had returned for his junior season.

Next: 2nd Round